Harry's Matariki Learning Story

Learner: Harry     Learning Coach:  T.DIllner          Date: 18.6.15

Learning Area: Social Science - Matariki

Learning Observed

While the Year 5 and 6 learners were at the Marae, the Year 3 and 4 learners spent the day finding out about Matariki - the Maori New Year. The learners watched and listened to the story ‘The Seven Stars of Matariki’ which was read by the author. From this, they were able to understand the background information about Matariki and how it came to be. One of our activities was kite making, as it represents how Maori people used to try and reach the seven Matariki stars. Harry worked with Nima to design his kite. He thought carefully about how he would like to design it and could describe the importance of adding stars to his kite. He showed me how he could draw stars by using 5 continuous lines without taking his felt off the page. Harry was focused and on task, showing careful dedication to his learning.

Evidence of learning

Key Competencies/Vision Principles

Harry made clear connections between the story of Matariki and the designs he put on his kite. He was able to discuss some areas of the book that he remembered and used these to help him (Using Language, Symbols and Text). Harry was very enthusiastic about sharing his thoughts and was very keen to demonstrate his capability at drawing stars! They were better than mine! (Relating to Others).

Next Learning Steps

Think about the colours that he could use based on the text and his understanding of Maori culture. Practise cutting the paper by following the lines of the kite. Add straws to the back to keep it upright.